Are Collards the New Kale?

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If 2014 was the year of the kale, then 2015 is the year of the collard. The leafy green vegetable has seen a big marketing push from Whole Foods — and for good reason. Collards actually beat kale when it comes to nutrients: They pack more calcium and iron than kale. Plus, they contain 5 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein per cup (cooked), compared with kale’s 3 and 2 grams, respectively.
So what can you do with collards? Happily, they’re just as versatile as kale. Try the hardy greens in these delicious dishes.
If you’re new to collards, start with this simple — yet delicious — recipe. Chopped collard greens are sauteed with onion before being simmered in chicken broth until tender. The result: melt-in-your mouth greens that are good for you too.

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This version of sauteed collard greens from Sunny Anderson takes a traditional dish to new heights. Red pepper flakes are added to help turn up the heat, while tossing in freshly chopped tomato before serving helps keep things fresh.

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Sweet butternut squash is the perfect complement to slightly bitter collards. In this easy recipe, the greens and squash are simmered together with garlic and — surprise! — ginger for an unexpected burst of flavor.

Stephen Johnson, 2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
Because collards are heartier than kale, they work great as a wrap. Plus, they’re a healthy stand-in for a flour tortilla. In this recipe, the greens are quickly steamed before being filled with rice, black beans and tomatoes and topped with a zesty cilantro-and-jalapeno-laced sauce.
Abigail Libers is a freelance writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She is also the creator and editor of notesonfatherhood.tumblr.com.